There are many great places to retire in Florida. Here’s why Tallahassee resident Gail McDonald chose to retire in the capital city!
I am a true believer in “everything happens for a reason”….My husband Neil and I built our life in South Florida after our marriage in 1996.
Born in Chicago, my family moved to Coral Gables, Florida in 1955. The only time I lived anywhere else was an “ after graduation” escape to Los Angeles for 5 years. Everything I wanted or needed was in South Florida…or so I thought.
Neil was already retired and I was happily employed as the Advertising Director for a chain of music stores going strong for 19 years. A series of events occurred, including the passing of my beloved Mom, the closing of the music stores I worked for, multiple hurricanes wreaking havoc on our homes (including Andrew), and a realization that South Florida was nothing like we remembered it to be.
Why Retire to Tallahassee?
When we sat down, the more we thought about it, the more appealing Tallahassee became as a retirement destination!
- Although it’s north, it’s still Florida, so you don’t have to pay state income tax
- It’s far enough inland to avoid the force of hurricane surge
- English speaking city
- Finally, my brother and his family live in Tallahassee!
To make a long story short….and because I believe everything happens for a reason….Tallahassee chose me to apply for a position of Sales Director at a brand new Independent and Assisted Living community in Killearn.
I had no experience in senior living and no qualifications required for the position… but they hired me anyways! I finished my career and retired from Allegro, which has been one of the greatest joys of my life. The job provided me the opportunity to meet the kindest people I have ever known. I have also had the opportunity to make a difference in many lives. It does not get any better than that!
Thank you Tallahassee for choosing me. Living and working at Heritage Oaks/Allegro and meeting the most amazing people in Tallahassee has enhanced my life. I strongly suggest that if you want to enjoy a better quality of life, surround yourself with the majestic beauty of the rolling hills and oaks, become a part of a “family oriented” community with cultural and local activities abound … CHOOSE TALLAHASSEE!
Gail McDonald
Retired from Allegro Senior Living
https://www.allegroliving.com/